The Book of Ezekiel

Ezekiel is referred to by name as the author of this prophetic book. The use of the personal pronoun "I" throughout the book, along with the unity of style and language, point to Ezekiel as the only writer. His prophecies can be dated with great accuracy because of his orderly method of recording and dating his work.


Ezekiel's book is well organized, and its 48 chapters divide naturally into four major sections. Chapters 1 - 3 describes Ezekiel's powerful vision of God's glory and throne and how God commissioned him for prophecy ministry. Examples of other prophetic ministries that started out with awe-inspiring revelation from God include that of Moses, who encountered God at the burning bush, and Isaiah, who saw a vision of God in the temple.


The second section (chapters 4 ; 24) records Ezekiel's powerful messages of judgment that forcefully struck the hearts of the people and removed all hope of turning away the wrath of God because of their continued rebellion. These messages named both those of Jerusalem and the nation of Judah as hopelessly rebellious and worthy of God's judgment. For seven years, Ezekiel warned the Jews that were still in Jerusalem and the captives that had already been carried away to Babylon not to expect that Jerusalem would survive judgment. Jerusalem's past and present sins sealed her destiny of destruction.


The third section (chapters 25 - 32) contains prophecies of judgment against seven foreign nations that were rejoicing over Judah's downfall.


The books final section (chapters 33 ; 48) marks a prophetic transition from messages of gloomy judgment to reassurance and future hope. After Jerusalem's fall, Ezekiel prophesies of future revival and restoration.


Seven major features characterize the book of Ezekiel. 1. It is full of mysterious visions, and bold images - all of which God uses to reveal prophetic messages. 2. The content of the book is carefully arranged and dated. 3. Two unique phrases occur throughout the book: "Then they will know that I am the Lord" and "the glory of the Lord". 4. God usually addresses Ezekiel as "son of man" or "watchman". 5. This book records two extraordinary visions of the temple. 6. More than any other prophet, Ezekiel was required by God to personally identify with his message by acting it out symbolically. 7. Ezekiel's messages focus on individual responsibility and accountability to God.